Sarangani Energy Corporation (SEC), part of the <a href="http://www.alsonspower.com">Alsons Power Group</a>, has been recognized for its outstanding commitment to workplace safety and health at the 13th Gawad Kaligtasan at Kalusugan (GKK). Selected from over 100 nominees, SEC’s recognition reflects its unwavering dedication to protecting its people, partners, and communities—fully embodying Alsons Power’s brand promise: “We Power with Care.”

DOLE XII Regional Director Joel Gonzales (far left) and OIC-Training and Public Information Division Chief Jose Soriano (far right) present the plaque and cash prize to Sarangani Energy's Assistant HR Manager Mary Shower Megrenio, recognizing the power plant's safety and emergency preparedness at the 13th Gawad Kaligtasan at Kalusugan (GKK) in General Santos City.

“This recognition is a testament to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/alsonspower">Alsons Power</a>’s commitment to safety and sustainable operations. Our priority has always been to provide reliable and affordable power while ensuring the well-being of our people and communities,” said Jose Luis R. Angco, Alsons Power Vice President and Business Manager for Plant Operations.

As a 237-megawatt baseload plant, Sarangani Energy has built comprehensive safety measures into every aspect of its operations. These include risk assessments, emergency drills, and continuous training to keep employees and contractors well-prepared for any situation. SEC’s commitment extends beyond the plant, working closely with local government units and emergency responders to protect the broader community in Barangay Kamanga, Maasim, Sarangani Province.

This year marks the first time that Alsons Power’s Sarangani Energy participated in the GKK, and DOLE’s recognition reflects the company’s proactive approach to safeguarding lives and fostering a safe work environment. This achievement reinforces Alsons Power’s reputation as a responsible employer and sets a positive example for other companies and organizations in the region.

The GKK award is a result of a rigorous selection process that included interviews, on-site assessments, and thorough evaluations by experts from the DOLE, Occupational Safety and Health Center (OSHC), Employees Compensation Commission, Social Security System (SSS), and the Regional Tripartite Industrial Peace Council (RTIPC),&nbsp;ensuring that only the highest standards in occupational safety were recognized.

Sarangani Energy Corporation (SEC), part of the <a href="http://www.alsonspower.com">Alsons Power Group</a>, has been recognized for its outstanding commitment to workplace safety and health at the 13th Gawad Kaligtasan at Kalusugan (GKK). Selected from over 100 nominees, SEC’s recognition reflects its unwavering dedication to protecting its people, partners, and communities—fully embodying Alsons Power’s brand promise: “We Power with Care.”<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/af231700-5629-4ce3-0521-21fb45b6ad00/public" alt="Image" />DOLE XII Regional Director Joel Gonzales (far left) and OIC-Training and Public Information Division Chief Jose Soriano (far right) present the plaque and cash prize to Sarangani Energy's Assistant HR Manager Mary Shower Megrenio, recognizing the power plant's safety and emergency preparedness at the 13th Gawad Kaligtasan at Kalusugan (GKK) in General Santos City.“This recognition is a testament to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/alsonspower">Alsons Power</a>’s commitment to safety and sustainable operations. Our priority has always been to provide reliable and affordable power while ensuring the well-being of our people and communities,” said Jose Luis R. Angco, Alsons Power Vice President and Business Manager for Plant Operations.As a 237-megawatt baseload plant, Sarangani Energy has built comprehensive safety measures into every aspect of its operations. These include risk assessments, emergency drills, and continuous training to keep employees and contractors well-prepared for any situation. SEC’s commitment extends beyond the plant, working closely with local government units and emergency responders to protect the broader community in Barangay Kamanga, Maasim, Sarangani Province.This year marks the first time that Alsons Power’s Sarangani Energy participated in the GKK, and DOLE’s recognition reflects the company’s proactive approach to safeguarding lives and fostering a safe work environment. This achievement reinforces Alsons Power’s reputation as a responsible employer and sets a positive example for other companies and organizations in the region.The GKK award is a result of a rigorous selection process that included interviews, on-site assessments, and thorough evaluations by experts from the DOLE, Occupational Safety and Health Center (OSHC), Employees Compensation Commission, Social Security System (SSS), and the Regional Tripartite Industrial Peace Council (RTIPC),&nbsp;ensuring that only the highest standards in occupational safety were recognized.

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Electricity / Gas / Resources / Energy

Environment / SGDs / Recycling

Local companies

Alsons Power’s Sarangani Energy Corporation Wins Safety Excellence Award at DOLE’s 13th Gawad Kaligtasan at Kalusugan

GENERAL SANTOS CITY – “Alsons Power is helping unlock the vast potential of Mindanao, fueling communities, and driving sustainable economic growth while prioritizing environmental stewardship,” said Antonio Miguel “Anton” Alcantara, CEO of <a href="http://www.alsonspower.com">Alsons Power</a>, at the 33rd Mindanao Business Conference (MinBizCon). The event, held at the KCC Convention Center in General Santos City, brought together key leaders to discuss the future of the region’s economy.

As the power business unit of the Alcantara Group—a Mindanao-focused enterprise with significant investments in energy, agriculture, and real estate—Alsons Power plays a crucial role in supporting the region’s rapid development.

Alcantara shared that the Department of Budget and Management is targeting an economic growth rate of 6.5% to 7.5% by 2025, which is expected to drive an even greater demand for energy.

Data from the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP) and the Department of Energy show that the Philippines reached a peak energy demand of 17,331 megawatts in 2023, which surged to over 19,000 megawatts by the April 2024. Mindanao mirrored this trend, reaching a peak demand of 2,642 megawatts in April this year, an increase from the 2,323 megawatts recorded in the previous year. These rising figures highlight the nation's growing power consumption, driven by heightened economic activity and rising temperatures.

"Our population is rapidly growing, and every household increases power consumption, upgrading the use of electricity. That's about 100–125 megawatts in Mindanao every year," said Assistant Secretary Romeo M. Montenegro, Deputy Executive Director of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), addressing delegates at the Zamboanga Peninsula (ZamPen) Power Summit last August.

"After 4-5 years, a shortage will happen again, which is why proper timing, coordination in terms of policy and investments, and attracting power investment sectors are a must in Mindanao to avoid the rotating brownouts that happened in the past," Montenegro added.

To help meet this surging power demand, Alcantara outlined Alsons Power’s strategy to expand and diversify its energy portfolio. “We’re committed to developing new power plants with a strong focus on renewable energy while optimizing our existing conventional power assets,” he said.

Currently, <a href="http://www.alsonspower.com">Alsons Power</a> has a capacity of over 460 megawatts, serving more than eight million people across Mindanao.

“Alsons Power is focused on building our renewable energy portfolio with various hydro and solar projects at different stages of development and implementation. These projects aim to contribute to the country’s goal of reaching a 35% renewable energy share by 2030 and 50% by 2040,” Alcantara said.

Recently, Alsons Power completed its first foray into the renewable energy landscape with the 14.5-megawatt run-of-river Siguil Hydro Power Plant in Maasim, Sarangani Province. This plant has an estimated annual output of around 95,000 MWh, capable of powering over 40,000 households. Siguil Hydro is the fifth renewable energy project to enter Mindanao's Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM).

Alsons Power is also advancing other renewable projects, including the Sindangan Zambo-River Power Plant with a potential capacity of 8.8 megawatts for the run-of-river hydropower plant and 29 megawatts for the solar power plant.

More than three decades after helping address the Mindanao power crisis and the region's growing energy demands, Alsons Power remains committed to delivering safe, reliable, and affordable energy to the Southern Philippines and beyond. Recently, the Alcantara-led power business unit secured its first retail electricity supply agreement with Holcim Philippines, under which it will supply 80% of the energy needs for Holcim’s facilities in Davao and Lugait, Misamis Oriental.

“Reliable and affordable electricity is a key driver in attracting investments to a region. Our power facilities in Maasim, Sarangani, play a critical role in providing the stable energy needed to support and attract investments, not just within the province but across Mindanao,” emphasized Alcantara.

Alcantara also highlighted the company’s role in attracting large-scale industrial projects, including the multi-billion-dollar Panhua Integrated Steel Plant, a flagship venture by China’s Panhua Group, slated for completion by 2026 in the Kamanga Agro-Industrial Ecozone (KAIEZ) in Maasim, Sarangani.

“As we diversify our power sources, we remain committed to driving Mindanao’s growth, fostering economic progress, and safeguarding our natural resources,” Alcantara concluded.

GENERAL SANTOS CITY – “Alsons Power is helping unlock the vast potential of Mindanao, fueling communities, and driving sustainable economic growth while prioritizing environmental stewardship,” said Antonio Miguel “Anton” Alcantara, CEO of <a href="http://www.alsonspower.com">Alsons Power</a>, at the 33rd Mindanao Business Conference (MinBizCon). The event, held at the KCC Convention Center in General Santos City, brought together key leaders to discuss the future of the region’s economy.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/b2639bf6-06df-469e-b115-638c2589ae00/public" alt="Alsons Power Group CEO, Antonio Miguel B. Alcantara, underscored the importance of reliable and affordable energy at the recently concluded Mindanao Business Conference. He emphasized the need for a balanced portfolio of power resources to attract investments and drive sustainable progress in Mindanao." />As the power business unit of the Alcantara Group—a Mindanao-focused enterprise with significant investments in energy, agriculture, and real estate—Alsons Power plays a crucial role in supporting the region’s rapid development.Alcantara shared that the Department of Budget and Management is targeting an economic growth rate of 6.5% to 7.5% by 2025, which is expected to drive an even greater demand for energy.Data from the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP) and the Department of Energy show that the Philippines reached a peak energy demand of 17,331 megawatts in 2023, which surged to over 19,000 megawatts by the April 2024. Mindanao mirrored this trend, reaching a peak demand of 2,642 megawatts in April this year, an increase from the 2,323 megawatts recorded in the previous year. These rising figures highlight the nation's growing power consumption, driven by heightened economic activity and rising temperatures."Our population is rapidly growing, and every household increases power consumption, upgrading the use of electricity. That's about 100–125 megawatts in Mindanao every year," said Assistant Secretary Romeo M. Montenegro, Deputy Executive Director of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), addressing delegates at the Zamboanga Peninsula (ZamPen) Power Summit last August."After 4-5 years, a shortage will happen again, which is why proper timing, coordination in terms of policy and investments, and attracting power investment sectors are a must in Mindanao to avoid the rotating brownouts that happened in the past," Montenegro added.To help meet this surging power demand, Alcantara outlined Alsons Power’s strategy to expand and diversify its energy portfolio. “We’re committed to developing new power plants with a strong focus on renewable energy while optimizing our existing conventional power assets,” he said.Currently, <a href="http://www.alsonspower.com">Alsons Power</a> has a capacity of over 460 megawatts, serving more than eight million people across Mindanao.“Alsons Power is focused on building our renewable energy portfolio with various hydro and solar projects at different stages of development and implementation. These projects aim to contribute to the country’s goal of reaching a 35% renewable energy share by 2030 and 50% by 2040,” Alcantara said.Recently, Alsons Power completed its first foray into the renewable energy landscape with the 14.5-megawatt run-of-river Siguil Hydro Power Plant in Maasim, Sarangani Province. This plant has an estimated annual output of around 95,000 MWh, capable of powering over 40,000 households. Siguil Hydro is the fifth renewable energy project to enter Mindanao's Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM).Alsons Power is also advancing other renewable projects, including the Sindangan Zambo-River Power Plant with a potential capacity of 8.8 megawatts for the run-of-river hydropower plant and 29 megawatts for the solar power plant.More than three decades after helping address the Mindanao power crisis and the region's growing energy demands, Alsons Power remains committed to delivering safe, reliable, and affordable energy to the Southern Philippines and beyond. Recently, the Alcantara-led power business unit secured its first retail electricity supply agreement with Holcim Philippines, under which it will supply 80% of the energy needs for Holcim’s facilities in Davao and Lugait, Misamis Oriental.“Reliable and affordable electricity is a key driver in attracting investments to a region. Our power facilities in Maasim, Sarangani, play a critical role in providing the stable energy needed to support and attract investments, not just within the province but across Mindanao,” emphasized Alcantara.Alcantara also highlighted the company’s role in attracting large-scale industrial projects, including the multi-billion-dollar Panhua Integrated Steel Plant, a flagship venture by China’s Panhua Group, slated for completion by 2026 in the Kamanga Agro-Industrial Ecozone (KAIEZ) in Maasim, Sarangani.“As we diversify our power sources, we remain committed to driving Mindanao’s growth, fostering economic progress, and safeguarding our natural resources,” Alcantara concluded.

Event

Alsons Power: Energizing Mindanao's Path to Growth and Development

Quezon Province, Philippines – 07 August 2024 – In a groundbreaking achievement, Berde Kaway has been certified by the Department of Energy (DOE) as the first and only biomass production facility in the Philippines. This landmark certification, which involved close collaboration between <a href="https://berde-kaway.com/">Berde Kaway</a>, <a href="https://reurasia.com/company-profile/">REURASIA Management Corporation</a>, and the DOE, marks a significant step forward in the country’s transition to sustainable energy solutions.

Biomass pellet production at Berde Kaway begins with the collection of agricultural waste, which is abundant in a country with a thriving agricultural sector. Materials such as rice husks, coconut shells, and other agricultural by-products are gathered and processed into uniform, high-density pellets. These raw materials, often considered waste, are first dried to reduce moisture content, ensuring that the final product is energy-efficient when burned.

Once dried, the material is finely ground and compressed under high pressure to form pellets. No binders or additives are used in this process, making the pellets a pure and clean fuel source. The resulting biomass pellets are small, cylindrical, and highly dense, which allows for efficient storage and transportation. Each pellet packs a significant amount of energy, making them an ideal substitute for traditional fossil fuels like coal.

2. Shredder&nbsp;– specially designed for Coconut Husks &amp; other materials

4. Rotary Dryer heated from a biomass furnace

6. Pelletizers&nbsp;– 2 units to maintain availability

7. Pellet Cooler&nbsp;– from the pelletizer the pellets are 85°C

8. Bulk truck loading, with option for feeding to sacks / jumbo bags

Biomass pellets are primarily used as fuel in industrial boilers, which are essential for generating the heat required in various manufacturing processes like paper, gypsum, tuna processing. These pellets can be burned in different types of boilers, including:

Grate-fired Boilers: These are among the most common types of boilers used in industries. They are well-suited for burning solid fuels like biomass pellets and can be found in industries such as sugar refining and food processing.

Fluidized Bed Boilers: Known for their efficiency and versatility, these boilers can handle a variety of fuels, including biomass pellets. They are particularly used in power generation and large-scale industrial applications.

Pulverized Fuel Boilers: Typically used for coal, these boilers can also be adapted to burn biomass pellets. This flexibility allows industries to gradually transition from coal to more sustainable fuel sources without significant investment in new infrastructure.

The process of burning biomass pellets in these boilers is straightforward and requires minimal modifications to existing equipment. The pellets are fed into the boiler, where they are burned to generate heat. This heat is then used to produce steam, which drives turbines or is directly applied in industrial processes such as drying, heating, and power generation.

Why Biomass Pellet Production Is Important for the Philippines

The significance of Berde Kaway’s biomass pellet production extends beyond just providing a renewable energy source. The facility plays a crucial role in the Philippines' broader energy strategy, as outlined in the Philippine Energy Plan 2020-2040. The plan emphasizes the need to transition to clean energy sources, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and increase the share of renewable energy in the country’s energy mix.

Heat generation in industrial processes is one of the largest sources of CO2 emissions in the Philippines while coal alone is 66.76% of it. By using biomass pellets, which are carbon-neutral, industries can significantly cut their emissions. This aligns with the country’s commitment under the Paris Agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 75% by 2030.

Furthermore, the adoption of biomass energy supports the local economy by utilizing agricultural waste, reducing waste management issues, and creating green jobs.&nbsp;

The Future of Biomass Energy in the Philippines

Berde Kaway’s current production capacity of 600 tons per month is just the beginning. With plans to ramp up production to 250,000 tons per year by 2027, the company is poised to meet the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions in the Philippines. This expansion includes the construction of a new facility and the development of dedicated plantations, ensuring a stable and affordable supply of biomass pellets for years to come.

The strategic location of Berde Kaway’s facility in Quezon Province allows it to serve nearby industries efficiently, reducing transportation costs and emissions associated with fuel delivery. As more multinational companies in the Philippines strive to meet their sustainability targets, the demand for biomass pellets is expected to rise, driven by the dual benefits of reducing carbon emissions and qualifying for carbon credits.

The Role of Biomass in Reducing Coal Dependency

In this context, the development of biomass energy, as exemplified by Berde Kaway’s biomass pellet production, becomes increasingly crucial. Biomass offers a viable alternative to coal, capable of being integrated into existing industrial boilers with minimal infrastructure changes. The transition to biomass not only helps reduce CO2 emissions but also supports the circular economy by utilizing agricultural waste, thus addressing both environmental and economic challenges.

The certification of Berde Kaway by the DOE marks a significant milestone in the Philippines’ journey towards a sustainable energy future. By producing biomass pellets that serve as a viable alternative to coal, Berde Kaway is helping industries transition to cleaner energy sources, thereby reducing the country’s overall carbon footprint. With the support of REURASIA Management Corporation, which financed, engineered, and installed the facility’s equipment, Berde Kaway is not just leading the green wave—it is setting the standard for renewable energy in the Philippines.

As the world moves towards greener energy solutions, Berde Kaway stands at the forefront, ready to meet the challenges of the future and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable Philippines.

Berde Kaway, located in Quezon Province, has become the Philippines' first and only DOE-certified biomass production facility, producing eco-friendly biomass pellets from agricultural waste. This certification, a result of close collaboration with REURASIA Management Corporation and the DOE, sets a new standard for renewable energy in the country. The facility currently produces 600 tons per month, with plans to expand to 250,000 tons per year by 2027. Berde Kaway's biomass pellets offer a sustainable alternative to coal, helping industries reduce carbon emissions and earn carbon credits, all without additional infrastructure investment. Quezon Province, Philippines – 07 August 2024 – In a groundbreaking achievement, Berde Kaway has been certified by the Department of Energy (DOE) as the first and only biomass production facility in the Philippines. This landmark certification, which involved close collaboration between <a href="https://berde-kaway.com/">Berde Kaway</a>, <a href="https://reurasia.com/company-profile/">REURASIA Management Corporation</a>, and the DOE, marks a significant step forward in the country’s transition to sustainable energy solutions.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/ffc497b5-54fb-4fb0-263a-8528ab056b00/public" alt="Berde Kaway and its sister company, REURASIA Management Corp" /><h3>The Process of Biomass Pellet Production</h3>Biomass pellet production at Berde Kaway begins with the collection of agricultural waste, which is abundant in a country with a thriving agricultural sector. Materials such as rice husks, coconut shells, and other agricultural by-products are gathered and processed into uniform, high-density pellets. These raw materials, often considered waste, are first dried to reduce moisture content, ensuring that the final product is energy-efficient when burned.Once dried, the material is finely ground and compressed under high pressure to form pellets. No binders or additives are used in this process, making the pellets a pure and clean fuel source. The resulting biomass pellets are small, cylindrical, and highly dense, which allows for efficient storage and transportation. Each pellet packs a significant amount of energy, making them an ideal substitute for traditional fossil fuels like coal.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/c9ed05e5-a00b-4e2f-4952-a1f3f540b800/public" alt="Berde Kaway process flow" /><h6>1. Raw material feed conveyor</h6><h6>2. Shredder&nbsp;– specially designed for Coconut Husks &amp; other materials</h6><h6>3. Hammer Mill</h6><h6>4. Rotary Dryer heated from a biomass furnace</h6><h6>5. Dust Collection</h6><h6>6. Pelletizers&nbsp;– 2 units to maintain availability</h6><h6>7. Pellet Cooler&nbsp;– from the pelletizer the pellets are 85°C</h6><h6>8. Bulk truck loading, with option for feeding to sacks / jumbo bags</h6><h3>How Biomass Pellets Are Used</h3>Biomass pellets are primarily used as fuel in industrial boilers, which are essential for generating the heat required in various manufacturing processes like paper, gypsum, tuna processing. These pellets can be burned in different types of boilers, including:Grate-fired Boilers: These are among the most common types of boilers used in industries. They are well-suited for burning solid fuels like biomass pellets and can be found in industries such as sugar refining and food processing.Fluidized Bed Boilers: Known for their efficiency and versatility, these boilers can handle a variety of fuels, including biomass pellets. They are particularly used in power generation and large-scale industrial applications.Pulverized Fuel Boilers: Typically used for coal, these boilers can also be adapted to burn biomass pellets. This flexibility allows industries to gradually transition from coal to more sustainable fuel sources without significant investment in new infrastructure.The process of burning biomass pellets in these boilers is straightforward and requires minimal modifications to existing equipment. The pellets are fed into the boiler, where they are burned to generate heat. This heat is then used to produce steam, which drives turbines or is directly applied in industrial processes such as drying, heating, and power generation.<h3>Why Biomass Pellet Production Is Important for the Philippines</h3>The significance of Berde Kaway’s biomass pellet production extends beyond just providing a renewable energy source. The facility plays a crucial role in the Philippines' broader energy strategy, as outlined in the Philippine Energy Plan 2020-2040. The plan emphasizes the need to transition to clean energy sources, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and increase the share of renewable energy in the country’s energy mix.Heat generation in industrial processes is one of the largest sources of CO2 emissions in the Philippines while coal alone is 66.76% of it. By using biomass pellets, which are carbon-neutral, industries can significantly cut their emissions. This aligns with the country’s commitment under the Paris Agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 75% by 2030.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/36b9d039-ec21-4fbb-474e-7f18f955d300/public" alt="GHG EMISSION BY FUEL (2019 vs. 2020) *extracted from Philippine Energy Plan 2020-2040" />Furthermore, the adoption of biomass energy supports the local economy by utilizing agricultural waste, reducing waste management issues, and creating green jobs.&nbsp;<h3>The Future of Biomass Energy in the Philippines</h3>Berde Kaway’s current production capacity of 600 tons per month is just the beginning. With plans to ramp up production to 250,000 tons per year by 2027, the company is poised to meet the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions in the Philippines. This expansion includes the construction of a new facility and the development of dedicated plantations, ensuring a stable and affordable supply of biomass pellets for years to come.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/40fc1771-03d7-44ea-d613-8b3e8bee7800/public" alt="Berde Kaway initial facility using coconut husk" />The strategic location of Berde Kaway’s facility in Quezon Province allows it to serve nearby industries efficiently, reducing transportation costs and emissions associated with fuel delivery. As more multinational companies in the Philippines strive to meet their sustainability targets, the demand for biomass pellets is expected to rise, driven by the dual benefits of reducing carbon emissions and qualifying for carbon credits.<h3>The Role of Biomass in Reducing Coal Dependency</h3>In this context, the development of biomass energy, as exemplified by Berde Kaway’s biomass pellet production, becomes increasingly crucial. Biomass offers a viable alternative to coal, capable of being integrated into existing industrial boilers with minimal infrastructure changes. The transition to biomass not only helps reduce CO2 emissions but also supports the circular economy by utilizing agricultural waste, thus addressing both environmental and economic challenges.The certification of Berde Kaway by the DOE marks a significant milestone in the Philippines’ journey towards a sustainable energy future. By producing biomass pellets that serve as a viable alternative to coal, Berde Kaway is helping industries transition to cleaner energy sources, thereby reducing the country’s overall carbon footprint. With the support of REURASIA Management Corporation, which financed, engineered, and installed the facility’s equipment, Berde Kaway is not just leading the green wave—it is setting the standard for renewable energy in the Philippines.As the world moves towards greener energy solutions, Berde Kaway stands at the forefront, ready to meet the challenges of the future and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable Philippines.

Agriculture / Forestry / Fisheries

Green technology

SMEs

Berde Kaway, located in Quezon Province, has become the Philippines' first and only DOE-certified biomass production facility, producing eco-friendly biomass pellets from agricultural waste. This certification, a result of close collaboration with REURASIA Management Corporation and the DOE, sets a new standard for renewable energy in the country. The facility currently produces 600 tons per month, with plans to expand to 250,000 tons per year by 2027. Berde Kaway's biomass pellets offer a sustainable alternative to coal, helping industries reduce carbon emissions and earn carbon credits, all without additional infrastructure investment.

Berde Kaway Rides the Green Wave as the Philippines' First Certified Biomass Production Facility

Manila, Philippines – 22 July 2024 – Hydrogène de France (HDF Energy) has solidified its partnership with the Department of Energy (DoE) and the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This pivotal agreement underscores the commitment to advance sustainable energy solutions across the Philippines, particularly through green hydrogen technologies.

Central to this initiative, <a href="https://reurasia.com/company-profile/">REURASIA Management Corporation </a>plays a vital role as the local consultant and technical expert, overseeing all critical studies and analyses required for the successful deployment of HDF Energy's projects in the country. With their deep expertise in renewable energy and comprehensive knowledge of the local landscape, REURASIA ensures that the projects align with both technical standards and the unique needs of the Philippine market.

Building on successful collaborations from previous years, the MoU marks a significant milestone in the Philippines' energy transition, emphasizing the decarbonization of its power sector. HDF Energy, in close cooperation with REURASIA, the DoE, and MinDA, aims to foster investments in renewable energy technologies, with a strong focus on hydrogen-based power generation.

As the leading local partner, REURASIA's contributions are instrumental in the realization of these ambitious projects, which are set to bring significant environmental benefits and energy resilience to the Philippines. Through REURASIA’s leadership in conducting technical studies, the initiative is poised to accelerate the deployment of HDF Energy’s Renewstable® multi-megawatt hydrogen power plants, providing a sustainable alternative to traditional energy sources.

This MoU signifies a strong commitment to a greener future for the Philippines, with REURASIA at the forefront, guiding the nation’s transition towards sustainable, hydrogen-powered energy solutions.

REURASIA Management Corporation is playing a key role as the local consultant and technical expert in HDF Energy's green hydrogen initiative in the Philippines. Through a newly signed MoU with the Department of Energy (DoE) and the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), REURASIA is leading all technical studies necessary for the deployment of HDF Energy’s Renewstable® hydrogen power plants. This collaboration aims to advance the country's energy transition by introducing sustainable, hydrogen-based power solutions, with REURASIA ensuring the projects meet local and technical standards. Manila, Philippines – 22 July 2024 – Hydrogène de France (HDF Energy) has solidified its partnership with the Department of Energy (DoE) and the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This pivotal agreement underscores the commitment to advance sustainable energy solutions across the Philippines, particularly through green hydrogen technologies.Central to this initiative, <a href="https://reurasia.com/company-profile/">REURASIA Management Corporation </a>plays a vital role as the local consultant and technical expert, overseeing all critical studies and analyses required for the successful deployment of HDF Energy's projects in the country. With their deep expertise in renewable energy and comprehensive knowledge of the local landscape, REURASIA ensures that the projects align with both technical standards and the unique needs of the Philippine market.Building on successful collaborations from previous years, the MoU marks a significant milestone in the Philippines' energy transition, emphasizing the decarbonization of its power sector. HDF Energy, in close cooperation with REURASIA, the DoE, and MinDA, aims to foster investments in renewable energy technologies, with a strong focus on hydrogen-based power generation.As the leading local partner, REURASIA's contributions are instrumental in the realization of these ambitious projects, which are set to bring significant environmental benefits and energy resilience to the Philippines. Through REURASIA’s leadership in conducting technical studies, the initiative is poised to accelerate the deployment of HDF Energy’s Renewstable® multi-megawatt hydrogen power plants, providing a sustainable alternative to traditional energy sources.This MoU signifies a strong commitment to a greener future for the Philippines, with REURASIA at the forefront, guiding the nation’s transition towards sustainable, hydrogen-powered energy solutions.

Foreign companies

REURASIA Management Corporation is playing a key role as the local consultant and technical expert in HDF Energy's green hydrogen initiative in the Philippines. Through a newly signed MoU with the Department of Energy (DoE) and the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), REURASIA is leading all technical studies necessary for the deployment of HDF Energy’s Renewstable® hydrogen power plants. This collaboration aims to advance the country's energy transition by introducing sustainable, hydrogen-based power solutions, with REURASIA ensuring the projects meet local and technical standards.

REURASIA supports HDF Energy's Green Hydrogen Initiative in the Philippines

BARI, Italy, 13 June 2024 — In a powerful call to action
on the eve of the G7 summit, Members of Parliaments from around the world
gathered here yesterday to call on the world’s richest economies to phase out
fossil fuels and fast-track renewable energy.

Parliamentarians from across the world, including
Kabataan Partylist Rep. Raoul Manuel, pose for a group photo after they
convened in Bari, Italy on June 12, 2024 to call on G7 leaders to phase out
fossil fuels and fast-track renewables. PHOTO BY Pablo Rodriguez

Over 50 parliamentarians have signed on to a statement
demanding a full, fast, fair, and funded transition away from coal, oil, and
gas, and holding the G7 accountable. This statement comes on the heels of the
fourth hearing of the Global Parliamentarians' Inquiry into the Progress of
Fossil Fuels Phase Out, highlighting the urgency for action.

“The final session of the Global Parliamentarians’
Inquiry into a Fossil Fuel Phase Out demonstrates a shared commitment to the
urgent task of tackling the climate crisis with the scale, solidarity, and
urgency it demands,” said US Senator Ed Markey. “On the eve of the G7, this
commitment is more critical than ever. The G7 countries account for more than a
quarter of current global oil, gas, and coal production but have the capacity
and responsibility to phase out fossil fuels. As parliamentarians, we will continue
to push for a cleaner, healthier, and more just future.”

Philippine Kabataan Partylist Representative&nbsp; Raoul Manuel delivers a statement during the
convening of parliamentarians from across the world in Bari, Italy on June 12,
2024 to call on G7 leaders to phase out fossil fuels and fast-track renewables.
PHOTO BY Pablo Rodriguez

G7 Funding Fossil Fuels Over Clean Energy

The largest economies continue to bankroll the climate
emergency and shirk from their duty to fast-track clean energy. G7 countries
prioritize fossil fuels over clean energy, with a staggering $25.7 billion
pumped into fossil fuel projects annually, compared to a mere $10.3 billion in
clean energy. Additionally, G7 countries provided a shocking $200 billion in
fossil fuel subsidies in 2022, while major G7-based banks financed a staggering
$700 billion in fossil fuel projects last year alone.

“The G7's continued financing of fossil fuels is a
blatant contradiction of their climate commitments and the Paris Agreement,”
said Canada Senator Rosa Galvez. “They have the power and responsibility to
lead the global phaseout, and have prioritized energy transition in their
Leader’s Summit, yet they're backtracking on their own promises.”

Parliamentarians from across the world convene in Bari,
Italy on June 12, 2024 to call on G7 leaders to phase out of fossil fuels and
fast-track renewables. PHOTO BY Pablo Rodriguez

“The historic decision at the COP28 climate conference in
Dubai to ‘transition away from fossil fuels’ has seemed to become little more
than a faint memory. The world must seize the moment to phase out fossil fuels
for good, and G7 countries can and must lead by example,” said Tanzania MP
Nusrat Hanje.

“We have made some progress but we have work to do at
COP29 in Baku &amp; COP30 in Belem. We need to hold the G7 to account. We need
to move from billions to trillions in climate finance, including the energy
transition,” said Bangladesh MP and Minister of Environment, Forests and
Climate Change Saber Chowdhury.

“Vulnerable countries and communities cannot afford to
wait for 2050 for the G7 to commit to a fossil fuel phaseout and a rapid
transition to renewable energy systems. These countries must also uphold a just
transition, scale up their delivery of climate finance, and strengthen their
Nationally Determined Contributions,” said Zambia MP Anthony Kasandwe.

“The recent G7 communiqués are widely perceived as
inadequate, replete with loopholes and their countries have continued to renege
on their commitments. We cannot afford to be unambitious. We have to act now,”
said Philippines MP Raoul Manuel.

“The G7 plays a very big role to fund climate action
including renewables. But how much of this money is reaching the hotspots? Can
we listen to each other to find a way forward for humanity?” asked Uganda MP
Lawrence Biyika Songa.

“G7 countries just don’t want to walk the talk. We need
to engage finance ministries and be involved in budget discussions. We need to
work with civil society more,” said Sierra Leone MP Rebecca Yei Kamara.

The hearing was held back to back with a preview of the
Global Parliamentarians’ Inquiry for a Fossil-Free Amazon, which aims to
pressure governments, public institutions and corporations within and working
in the region to scale up pledges and actions to stop oil and gas expansion in
the world’s largest rainforest.

“It is urgent that we protect the Amazon from industrial
activity and global warming. We must therefore phase out fossil fuels in the
region and globally. Oil and gas production in the region has caused not only
environmental degradation but also social destabilization, health impacts,
human rights violations, and corruption. We need to find out who funds and who
benefits from the exploration, and we need to make them accountable,” said
Brazil MP Livia Duartee, who hails from Belem.

“Through the new Amazon inquiry, we aim to investigate
progress in the fossil fuel phaseout in the Amazon region and explore
opportunities for phasing in renewable energy in a just and equitable manner,”
said Bolivia Senator Cecilia Requena.

A recent study shows that from 2016 to 2023, 38 of the
world's 60 largest banks have financed oil and gas exploitation in the Amazon
to the tune of $11.15 billion. Twenty-four of the 38 banks are from the G7 and
have bankrolled 80% of the total.

Brazil MP Livia Duarte, Bolivia Senator Cecilia Requena,
and Canada Senator Rosa Galvez led the media launch in Bari. They are joined in
the Amazon inquiry committee by Brazil MPs Célia Xakriabá and Ivan Valente,
Colombia MPs Andres Cancimance and Juan Carlos Lozada, Ecuador MP Jahiren
Noriega, and Peru MPs Sigrid Bazan and Ruth Luque.

The inquiry will be formally launched in August, the
first-year anniversary of Ecuador's popular consultation vote to stop and ban
oil exploitation in Yasuní National Park in the Amazon. Hearings and other
related activities will be held from 2024 to 2025, with the outcomes scheduled
to be presented prior and during COP30 in Belem.

(Editor's Note: This is a press release from
the Parliamentarians for a Fossil-Free Future, a network of over 800 Members of
Parliament from 95 countries calling for governments and corporations to phase
out fossil fuels and phase in renewable energy.)

Over 50 parliamentarians have signed on to a statement demanding a full, fast, fair, and funded transition away from coal, oil, and gas, and holding the G7 accountable. BARI, Italy, 13 June 2024 — In a powerful call to action
on the eve of the G7 summit, Members of Parliaments from around the world
gathered here yesterday to call on the world’s richest economies to phase out
fossil fuels and fast-track renewable energy.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/bdfd507fcb1f5ad0fe83e3a1aaff9e539f2f57ccaa924f63df5486726a3379de/240512%20PHOTO%201%20-%20parliamentarians%20meet%20%281%29.jpeg" alt="Image" />Parliamentarians from across the world, including
Kabataan Partylist Rep. Raoul Manuel, pose for a group photo after they
convened in Bari, Italy on June 12, 2024 to call on G7 leaders to phase out
fossil fuels and fast-track renewables. PHOTO BY Pablo RodriguezOver 50 parliamentarians have signed on to a statement
demanding a full, fast, fair, and funded transition away from coal, oil, and
gas, and holding the G7 accountable. This statement comes on the heels of the
fourth hearing of the Global Parliamentarians' Inquiry into the Progress of
Fossil Fuels Phase Out, highlighting the urgency for action.“The final session of the Global Parliamentarians’
Inquiry into a Fossil Fuel Phase Out demonstrates a shared commitment to the
urgent task of tackling the climate crisis with the scale, solidarity, and
urgency it demands,” said US Senator Ed Markey. “On the eve of the G7, this
commitment is more critical than ever. The G7 countries account for more than a
quarter of current global oil, gas, and coal production but have the capacity
and responsibility to phase out fossil fuels. As parliamentarians, we will continue
to push for a cleaner, healthier, and more just future.”<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/dde240a14a188bfab23bba5256538336bb8e0fb7677d48b894ef616b708c0458/240512%20PHOTO%202%20-%20parliamentarians%20meet.jpeg" alt="Image" />Philippine Kabataan Partylist Representative&nbsp; Raoul Manuel delivers a statement during the
convening of parliamentarians from across the world in Bari, Italy on June 12,
2024 to call on G7 leaders to phase out fossil fuels and fast-track renewables.
PHOTO BY Pablo RodriguezG7 Funding Fossil Fuels Over Clean EnergyThe largest economies continue to bankroll the climate
emergency and shirk from their duty to fast-track clean energy. G7 countries
prioritize fossil fuels over clean energy, with a staggering $25.7 billion
pumped into fossil fuel projects annually, compared to a mere $10.3 billion in
clean energy. Additionally, G7 countries provided a shocking $200 billion in
fossil fuel subsidies in 2022, while major G7-based banks financed a staggering
$700 billion in fossil fuel projects last year alone.“The G7's continued financing of fossil fuels is a
blatant contradiction of their climate commitments and the Paris Agreement,”
said Canada Senator Rosa Galvez. “They have the power and responsibility to
lead the global phaseout, and have prioritized energy transition in their
Leader’s Summit, yet they're backtracking on their own promises.”<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/cb3f9ed54f60f1ce8ec7664bcc1a2586e1ef6dfc6883d4a48f5fe79a2fb35c0c/240512%20PHOTO%203%20-%20parliamentarians%20meet%20%281%29.jpeg" alt="Image" />Parliamentarians from across the world convene in Bari,
Italy on June 12, 2024 to call on G7 leaders to phase out of fossil fuels and
fast-track renewables. PHOTO BY Pablo RodriguezDeveloping Nations Demand Action“The historic decision at the COP28 climate conference in
Dubai to ‘transition away from fossil fuels’ has seemed to become little more
than a faint memory. The world must seize the moment to phase out fossil fuels
for good, and G7 countries can and must lead by example,” said Tanzania MP
Nusrat Hanje.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/f44183e688b37e6fd6f9dd67dc698106bf1f8ba7f7f3db7ad4fa864eca058524/Parl%20G7%2012Jun2024%20-%208.jpeg" alt="Image" />Parliamentarians from across the world convene in Bari,
Italy on June 12, 2024 to call on G7 leaders to phase out of fossil fuels and
fast-track renewables. PHOTO BY Pablo Rodriguez“We have made some progress but we have work to do at
COP29 in Baku &amp; COP30 in Belem. We need to hold the G7 to account. We need
to move from billions to trillions in climate finance, including the energy
transition,” said Bangladesh MP and Minister of Environment, Forests and
Climate Change Saber Chowdhury.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/f78e9d1444083d145cebd15e12e1f07200c8e2fca537e3190433b356b3bbfabb/240512%20PHOTO%204%20-%20parliamentarians%20meet.jpeg" alt="Image" />Parliamentarians from across the world convene in Bari,
Italy on June 12, 2024 to call on G7 leaders to phase out of fossil fuels and
fast-track renewables. PHOTO BY Pablo Rodriguez“Vulnerable countries and communities cannot afford to
wait for 2050 for the G7 to commit to a fossil fuel phaseout and a rapid
transition to renewable energy systems. These countries must also uphold a just
transition, scale up their delivery of climate finance, and strengthen their
Nationally Determined Contributions,” said Zambia MP Anthony Kasandwe.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/f3c1e8eac3d8e35b49d6a286f8764329e32996c54737d32049cf4aea6f7e27f3/Parl%20G7%2012Jun2024%20-%209.jpeg" alt="Image" />Parliamentarians from across the world convene in Bari,
Italy on June 12, 2024 to call on G7 leaders to phase out of fossil fuels and
fast-track renewables. PHOTO BY Pablo RodriguezA Call to Seize the Moment“The recent G7 communiqués are widely perceived as
inadequate, replete with loopholes and their countries have continued to renege
on their commitments. We cannot afford to be unambitious. We have to act now,”
said Philippines MP Raoul Manuel.“The G7 plays a very big role to fund climate action
including renewables. But how much of this money is reaching the hotspots? Can
we listen to each other to find a way forward for humanity?” asked Uganda MP
Lawrence Biyika Songa.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/1cdfcad20a3c23227125f31ed6d1afb1298f50d020a33044d78bfcc2208b85fd/Parl%20G7%2012Jun2024%20-%2029.jpeg" alt="Image" />Parliamentarians from across the world convene in Bari,
Italy on June 12, 2024 to call on G7 leaders to phase out of fossil fuels and
fast-track renewables. PHOTO BY Pablo Rodriguez“G7 countries just don’t want to walk the talk. We need
to engage finance ministries and be involved in budget discussions. We need to
work with civil society more,” said Sierra Leone MP Rebecca Yei Kamara.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/85541069e4dc82bceb3d365dffa1452a204a4ef20e8af221426e9cb0c6fb95a3/240512%20PHOTO%205%20-%20parliamentarians%20meet%20%281%29.jpeg" alt="Image" />Parliamentarians from across the world convene in Bari,
Italy on June 12, 2024 to call on G7 leaders to phase out of fossil fuels and
fast-track renewables. PHOTO BY Pablo RodriguezLaunching the Amazon InquiryThe hearing was held back to back with a preview of the
Global Parliamentarians’ Inquiry for a Fossil-Free Amazon, which aims to
pressure governments, public institutions and corporations within and working
in the region to scale up pledges and actions to stop oil and gas expansion in
the world’s largest rainforest.Parliamentarians from across the world convene in Bari,
Italy on June 12, 2024 to call on G7 leaders to phase out of fossil fuels and
fast-track renewables. PHOTO BY Pablo Rodriguez“It is urgent that we protect the Amazon from industrial
activity and global warming. We must therefore phase out fossil fuels in the
region and globally. Oil and gas production in the region has caused not only
environmental degradation but also social destabilization, health impacts,
human rights violations, and corruption. We need to find out who funds and who
benefits from the exploration, and we need to make them accountable,” said
Brazil MP Livia Duartee, who hails from Belem.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/46946cc3bdd0bbc867aac76821d7e9d154a2e5e446d2614a84a10e7b1daca751/Parl%20G7%2012Jun2024%20-%2013.jpeg" alt="Image" />Parliamentarians from across the world convene in Bari,
Italy on June 12, 2024 to call on G7 leaders to phase out of fossil fuels and
fast-track renewables. PHOTO BY Pablo Rodriguez“Through the new Amazon inquiry, we aim to investigate
progress in the fossil fuel phaseout in the Amazon region and explore
opportunities for phasing in renewable energy in a just and equitable manner,”
said Bolivia Senator Cecilia Requena.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/f39635c7e2d96e10de104d484340164bdb25317c29cbe1c3833bdd30aa493ce7/Parl%20G7%2012Jun2024%20-%2016.jpeg" alt="Image" />Parliamentarians from across the world convene in Bari,
Italy on June 12, 2024 to call on G7 leaders to phase out of fossil fuels and
fast-track renewables. PHOTO BY Pablo RodriguezA recent study shows that from 2016 to 2023, 38 of the
world's 60 largest banks have financed oil and gas exploitation in the Amazon
to the tune of $11.15 billion. Twenty-four of the 38 banks are from the G7 and
have bankrolled 80% of the total.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/ddaf391d8b612c7e862f40f7276993f12b1de9527fd5ea2fefe3466b9445c75d/Parl%20G7%2012Jun2024%20-%2014.jpeg" alt="Image" />Parliamentarians from across the world convene in Bari,
Italy on June 12, 2024 to call on G7 leaders to phase out of fossil fuels and
fast-track renewables. PHOTO BY Pablo RodriguezBrazil MP Livia Duarte, Bolivia Senator Cecilia Requena,
and Canada Senator Rosa Galvez led the media launch in Bari. They are joined in
the Amazon inquiry committee by Brazil MPs Célia Xakriabá and Ivan Valente,
Colombia MPs Andres Cancimance and Juan Carlos Lozada, Ecuador MP Jahiren
Noriega, and Peru MPs Sigrid Bazan and Ruth Luque.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/a101ead653b186fd5b2e67141974a95b7fb9c48483f1c72d90ed8e92ce4df39b/Parl%20G7%2012Jun2024%20-%2012.jpeg" alt="Image" />Parliamentarians from across the world convene in Bari,
Italy on June 12, 2024 to call on G7 leaders to phase out of fossil fuels and
fast-track renewables. PHOTO BY Pablo RodriguezThe inquiry will be formally launched in August, the
first-year anniversary of Ecuador's popular consultation vote to stop and ban
oil exploitation in Yasuní National Park in the Amazon. Hearings and other
related activities will be held from 2024 to 2025, with the outcomes scheduled
to be presented prior and during COP30 in Belem.(Editor's Note: This is a press release from
the Parliamentarians for a Fossil-Free Future, a network of over 800 Members of
Parliament from 95 countries calling for governments and corporations to phase
out fossil fuels and phase in renewable energy.)

Politics / Government / Local government

Campaign

Over 50 parliamentarians have signed on to a statement demanding a full, fast, fair, and funded transition away from coal, oil, and gas, and holding the G7 accountable. 

 Parliamentarians call for G7 to lead fossil fuel phaseout at Italy summit

MANILA&nbsp; -France-based multinational corporation Schneider Electric is planning to scale up its logistics hub in the Philippines, with the company investing 1.4 million euros (P86.5M) for its expansion.

The Board of Investments (BOI) met with Schneider Electric executives on July 20, during which expansion plan for its facility in Cavite was discussed.

The government agency said this move reaffirmed the French firm’s confidence in continuing its manufacturing, logistics and other high value services in the country.

A company executive said their business was constantly evolving to ensure growth and resilience.

“An integral part of our growth strategy includes continued strengthening of the organization’s global services that is based in the Philippines,” said Ejie-Tauto-An, logistics director of APC, Schneider Electric’s flagship brand.

“This expansion underpins the company’s goal of further boosting our global presence and capabilities to support advancement across different markets around the globe,” he added.

Schneider Electric’s local unit has been operating in the Philippines for 26 years and currently has 3,375&nbsp; employees. The group caters to nine countries with annual products and services valued at 1 billion euros or P4.87 trillion.

The Philippines is one of four countries where the French firm operates global hubs, all of which provide technical, analytics, finance planning and accounting and sales support to 154 countries in 23 different languages.

Aside from this planned expansion in Cavite, the group has also expanded its analytics section for the Schneider Electric Global Hub in Taguig. The company is looking to hire 80 local data analysts for this expansion.

The group also discussed with BOI executives their road map to achieve net zero emission in its local operations within the current decade.

“Part of the company’s sustainability journey in the Philippines is to reach 50 percent conversion of inter-site trucks to electric vehicles (EV) and 20 percent of last mile to utilize EV trucks as part of their net-zero road map, which it plans to achieve by 2030,” said the BOI.

<h1>Schneider Electric to expand logistics hub in PH</h1>MANILA&nbsp; -France-based multinational corporation Schneider Electric is planning to scale up its logistics hub in the Philippines, with the company investing 1.4 million euros (P86.5M) for its expansion.The Board of Investments (BOI) met with Schneider Electric executives on July 20, during which expansion plan for its facility in Cavite was discussed.The government agency said this move reaffirmed the French firm’s confidence in continuing its manufacturing, logistics and other high value services in the country.A company executive said their business was constantly evolving to ensure growth and resilience.“An integral part of our growth strategy includes continued strengthening of the organization’s global services that is based in the Philippines,” said Ejie-Tauto-An, logistics director of APC, Schneider Electric’s flagship brand.“This expansion underpins the company’s goal of further boosting our global presence and capabilities to support advancement across different markets around the globe,” he added.Schneider Electric’s local unit has been operating in the Philippines for 26 years and currently has 3,375&nbsp; employees. The group caters to nine countries with annual products and services valued at 1 billion euros or P4.87 trillion.The Philippines is one of four countries where the French firm operates global hubs, all of which provide technical, analytics, finance planning and accounting and sales support to 154 countries in 23 different languages.Aside from this planned expansion in Cavite, the group has also expanded its analytics section for the Schneider Electric Global Hub in Taguig. The company is looking to hire 80 local data analysts for this expansion.The group also discussed with BOI executives their road map to achieve net zero emission in its local operations within the current decade.“Part of the company’s sustainability journey in the Philippines is to reach 50 percent conversion of inter-site trucks to electric vehicles (EV) and 20 percent of last mile to utilize EV trucks as part of their net-zero road map, which it plans to achieve by 2030,” said the BOI.

STEM (Science, Tech, Engineering, Math)

Schneider Electric to expand logistics hub in PH

Standard Insights Unveils Winners of the 2023 Consumer Choice Awards Philippines

Earlier this year, over 1,200 Filipinos participated in a survey to vote for their favorite brands in a wide range of industries. The survey was part of Standard Insights' Consumer Choice Awards 2023, which aims to recognize brands that have earned Filipino consumers' trust and loyalty.

Among the favorite brands of Filipinos, we can find:

Best Mobile Network Operator: Globe Telecom

Prominent telecommunications giant Globe Telecom emerges as the undisputed leader in the telecommunications sector, securing an impressive 41.2% of the overall votes. This is their 2nd consecutive year being recognized, following last year’s sweep at the&nbsp;<a href="https://standard-insights.com/awards/philippines/globe/">Mobile Network Operator Awards 2022</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Best Retail Bank:&nbsp;BDO Unibank

Full-service universal bank BDO Unibank stands as the favored retail banking brand, commanding a significant 33.0% of the votes.

Best Retail Insurance:&nbsp;Sun Life

Insurance provider Sun Life distinguishes itself as the favored insurance brand with an endorsement from 25.3% of the participants.

Local beer icon San Miguel secures its position as the favored local beer with a substantial 52.8% of the votes.

Best International Beer:&nbsp;Heineken

Global brewing powerhouse Heineken wins over consumer hearts as the preferred international beer, capturing an impressive 54.1% of the votes.

Best Retail Oil &amp; Gas Brand:&nbsp;Petron

Leading fuel and energy leader Petron claims the top position within the oil and gas segment, amassing an impressive 45.7% of the votes.

Best Food &amp; Beverage Delivery App:&nbsp;Foodpanda

Well-established food delivery platform Foodpanda dominates the food delivery category, capturing an impressive 56.2% of the votes.

Ride-hailing frontrunner Grab emerges as the premier transportation app, receiving a commendable 70.2% of the votes.

“The Philippines has known a momentous year with a new election, a significant impact on inflation, and COVID-19 issues that may have changed the way people consume. We are glad to have launched these awards in the Philippines to give brands insights into what people are thinking at the top of their minds and to reward them for their efforts. We are excited to see how the next editions will unfold,” said Florian Gaudel, Founder &amp; CEO of Standard Insights.&nbsp;

The 2023 Consumer Choice Awards not only honour the brands that have achieved consumer trust but also set a definitive benchmark for others striving to excel in the Philippines’ competitive market. This recognition underscores the impact these brands have made on consumers and their commitment to delivering top-notch products and services. 

For more information about the 2023 Consumer Choice Awards and the list of winners, please visit: <a href="https://standard-insights.com/awards/philippines/">https://standard-insights.com/awards/philippines/</a>

The Consumer Choice Awards by Standard Insights is an initiative that proudly recognizes brands that prioritize the needs and opinions of their customers resulting in being the top choice in their respective industries. The awards are based on a strict methodology involving real respondents, making the evaluation process fair and impartial.

<h1>Filipino Consumers Name Their Favorite Brands of 2023</h1>Discover the results of the 2023 Consumer Choice Award, which surveyed 1,200 Filipinos about their opinions towards multiple brands on various major industries and topics.<h2>Standard Insights Unveils Winners of the 2023 Consumer Choice Awards Philippines</h2>Earlier this year, over 1,200 Filipinos participated in a survey to vote for their favorite brands in a wide range of industries. The survey was part of Standard Insights' Consumer Choice Awards 2023, which aims to recognize brands that have earned Filipino consumers' trust and loyalty.<img style="max-width:100%;height:auto;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/857f17ab51bf7c869a1679a9f5d5bf3a3d44bb4cdb51a876ad581891ae37cde2/1080x566-ph%20%281%29.jpg" alt="Image"/>Among the favorite brands of Filipinos, we can find:Best Mobile Network Operator: Globe TelecomProminent telecommunications giant Globe Telecom emerges as the undisputed leader in the telecommunications sector, securing an impressive 41.2% of the overall votes. This is their 2nd consecutive year being recognized, following last year’s sweep at the&nbsp;<a href="https://standard-insights.com/awards/philippines/globe/">Mobile Network Operator Awards 2022</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;Best Retail Bank:&nbsp;BDO UnibankFull-service universal bank BDO Unibank stands as the favored retail banking brand, commanding a significant 33.0% of the votes.Best Retail Insurance:&nbsp;Sun LifeInsurance provider Sun Life distinguishes itself as the favored insurance brand with an endorsement from 25.3% of the participants.Best Local Beer:&nbsp;San MiguelLocal beer icon San Miguel secures its position as the favored local beer with a substantial 52.8% of the votes.Best International Beer:&nbsp;HeinekenGlobal brewing powerhouse Heineken wins over consumer hearts as the preferred international beer, capturing an impressive 54.1% of the votes.Best Retail Oil &amp; Gas Brand:&nbsp;PetronLeading fuel and energy leader Petron claims the top position within the oil and gas segment, amassing an impressive 45.7% of the votes.Best Food &amp; Beverage Delivery App:&nbsp;FoodpandaWell-established food delivery platform Foodpanda dominates the food delivery category, capturing an impressive 56.2% of the votes.Best Transportation App: GrabRide-hailing frontrunner Grab emerges as the premier transportation app, receiving a commendable 70.2% of the votes.“The Philippines has known a momentous year with a new election, a significant impact on inflation, and COVID-19 issues that may have changed the way people consume. We are glad to have launched these awards in the Philippines to give brands insights into what people are thinking at the top of their minds and to reward them for their efforts. We are excited to see how the next editions will unfold,” said Florian Gaudel, Founder &amp; CEO of Standard Insights.&nbsp;The 2023 Consumer Choice Awards not only honour the brands that have achieved consumer trust but also set a definitive benchmark for others striving to excel in the Philippines’ competitive market. This recognition underscores the impact these brands have made on consumers and their commitment to delivering top-notch products and services. For more information about the 2023 Consumer Choice Awards and the list of winners, please visit: <a href="https://standard-insights.com/awards/philippines/">https://standard-insights.com/awards/philippines/</a>About the Consumer Choice AwardsThe Consumer Choice Awards by Standard Insights is an initiative that proudly recognizes brands that prioritize the needs and opinions of their customers resulting in being the top choice in their respective industries. The awards are based on a strict methodology involving real respondents, making the evaluation process fair and impartial.Standard Insights offers accurate and comprehensive consumer insights utilizing the latest ad-tech infrastructure and Al-powered system. Our team of experts reaches real, representative respondents to give our clients the confidence they need when making important decisions about their brand's future.Standard Insights
Rémi Marié
Head of Digital
remi@standard-insights.com

Soft Drinks / Alcoholic drinks

Mobile app

Banks / Credit unions

Telecommunications / VoIP

Discover the results of the 2023 Consumer Choice Award, which surveyed 1,200 Filipinos about their opinions towards multiple brands on various major industries and topics.

Filipino Consumers Name Their Favorite Brands of 2023

Signing on behalf of Ceneco is president Jojit Yap and Primelectric president and chief executive officer Roel Castro while Ceneco acting general manager Arnel Lapore acted as witness.&nbsp; Also witnessing the signing were Negros Occidental Vice Governor Jeffrey Ferrer, Abang Lingkod party-list Rep. Stephen Paduano and majority of the barangay captains of Bacolod City. Castro called the signing "historic" not only for Ceneco and More Power but also for its stakeholders. The JVA will allow us to give better service within the power cooperative's franchise area, he said, adding that it can also now “extend technical and financial help to revive Ceneco.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Ceneco covers Bacolod City, capital of Negros Occidental, and neighboring cities of Bago, Talisay, Silay and the municipalities of Murcia and Salvador Benedicto. Lapore said Ceneco is having difficulty with its governance and resource management."The JVA will allow Ceneco to upgrade its infrastructure and address the power interruptions and system losses, which at their current status, we cannot do anything," he said. He said that the cooperative will conduct a simultaneous plebiscite in its franchise area on June 24 and 25 and July 1 and 2 to approve the JVA. Lapore added that a copy of the JVA will be spread out all over its coverage area.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

"All will have a voice during the JVA. They can even campaign for their position on the JVA. They can either vote ‘Yes’ or ‘No,’" he said. He pointed out that under Presidential Decree 269, when a cooperative disposes its assets, a majority consent from its consumers is needed. "Proxy voting is also allowed as long as it is notarized," he said. Castro said his company is eyeing an investment asset purchase of P1.7 billion with Ceneco depending how much are the total distribution assets.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

"We are ready with P2 billion and a total investment pegged at P3.7 to P4 billion with the JVA," Castro also said. Dwight Carbon, speaking on behalf of all the Ceneco directors, said they want to dissuade rumors that they are not doing anything on the board. "The primary problem is money. Whatever we want to improve the services, the problem still is money. We don't have capital. We processed this the right way and followed guidelines from the National Electrification Administration (NEA)," Carbon said. Paduano, meanwhile, challenged the oppositors of the JVA to lay down solutions to the problems facing the power firm.&nbsp; 

Ferrer, for his part, also said his office at the Capitol is open to any opposition of the JVA.“I dare them to convince me,” Ferrer said, adding "let the consumers decide." "This is a good move of the Ceneco Board," he also said. Ferrer said he discussed this with mayors of the local government units under the Ceneco franchise area and they decided to favor the joint venture. Asked if the JVA could get the required approval of 50 percent plus one during the plebiscite, he said, "it may even reach more than the required numbers. This is because this concerns the consumer. This is advantageous for them." "Ceneco is losing P20 million every month and they have a P800 million debt. How can you solve that? Come to my office and we will discuss that. If you could convince me I will join you. But give me a solution," Ferrer said. The Bacolod City Sangguniang Panlungsod will conduct a public consultation on Monday, June 5, Councilor Claudio Puentevella, chair of the Committee on energy and public utilities, said. Puentevella said they received a request from various groups in the city to hold a public consultation. "We need to address their questions and we will hear the direct answer from Ceneco and More Power," he added. Prior to the signing, Castro made a presentation on the services they have done with the power situation in Iloilo City before 40 of the 61 village chiefs and members of the Philippine Guardians Brotherhood Inc. 

During his presentation, Castro said MORE Power will pay Ceneco 100 percent of its distribution assets. Of which, 70 percent will be in cash and 30 percent in shares in the new distribution company that will be put up and seek a Congressional franchise. This will enable Ceneco to pay for its loans and for the retirement and separation pay for its employees, he said. The remaining amount, he said can be utilized as payment for patronage refund to its member-consumers. Castro assured power consumers of reasonable electrical rates by securing new power contracts from new suppliers through the Competitive Selection Process. "Our priority is renewable energy," he said.Under the JVA, he said, member-consumers are now assured of dividends every year.“We will provide consumer-friendly service that will respond to complaints 24/7,” he said. Castro said systems loss will greatly go down as the campaign against jumpers and power theft will be intensified. Residents, especially those who are informal settlers, will now find it easier to have their own electrical connectors as documentary requirements will be minimized, he said. Castro also committed to lessen incidents of unscheduled power interruptions. Under the JVA company, employees of Ceneco will be prioritized in the hiring, he said. Another commitment of Castro is the continuation of the Barangay Electrification Program of the national government." With stable power, new investors will come in which will mean more economic activity and employment opportunities for more people," he said&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h1>Ceneco, Primelectric ink joint venture agreement</h1>THE Central Negros Electric Cooperative (Ceneco) and Primelectric Holdings Inc.,a subsidiary of Iloilo City-based More Power Corp., signed the joint venture agreement (JVA) at Scarborough Restaurant in Bacolod City on Saturday, June 3.Signing on behalf of Ceneco is president Jojit Yap and Primelectric president and chief executive officer Roel Castro while Ceneco acting general manager Arnel Lapore acted as witness.&nbsp; Also witnessing the signing were Negros Occidental Vice Governor Jeffrey Ferrer, Abang Lingkod party-list Rep. Stephen Paduano and majority of the barangay captains of Bacolod City. Castro called the signing "historic" not only for Ceneco and More Power but also for its stakeholders. The JVA will allow us to give better service within the power cooperative's franchise area, he said, adding that it can also now “extend technical and financial help to revive Ceneco.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ceneco covers Bacolod City, capital of Negros Occidental, and neighboring cities of Bago, Talisay, Silay and the municipalities of Murcia and Salvador Benedicto. Lapore said Ceneco is having difficulty with its governance and resource management."The JVA will allow Ceneco to upgrade its infrastructure and address the power interruptions and system losses, which at their current status, we cannot do anything," he said. He said that the cooperative will conduct a simultaneous plebiscite in its franchise area on June 24 and 25 and July 1 and 2 to approve the JVA. Lapore added that a copy of the JVA will be spread out all over its coverage area.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "All will have a voice during the JVA. They can even campaign for their position on the JVA. They can either vote ‘Yes’ or ‘No,’" he said. He pointed out that under Presidential Decree 269, when a cooperative disposes its assets, a majority consent from its consumers is needed. "Proxy voting is also allowed as long as it is notarized," he said. Castro said his company is eyeing an investment asset purchase of P1.7 billion with Ceneco depending how much are the total distribution assets.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "We are ready with P2 billion and a total investment pegged at P3.7 to P4 billion with the JVA," Castro also said. Dwight Carbon, speaking on behalf of all the Ceneco directors, said they want to dissuade rumors that they are not doing anything on the board. "The primary problem is money. Whatever we want to improve the services, the problem still is money. We don't have capital. We processed this the right way and followed guidelines from the National Electrification Administration (NEA)," Carbon said. Paduano, meanwhile, challenged the oppositors of the JVA to lay down solutions to the problems facing the power firm.&nbsp; Ferrer, for his part, also said his office at the Capitol is open to any opposition of the JVA.“I dare them to convince me,” Ferrer said, adding "let the consumers decide." "This is a good move of the Ceneco Board," he also said. Ferrer said he discussed this with mayors of the local government units under the Ceneco franchise area and they decided to favor the joint venture. Asked if the JVA could get the required approval of 50 percent plus one during the plebiscite, he said, "it may even reach more than the required numbers. This is because this concerns the consumer. This is advantageous for them." "Ceneco is losing P20 million every month and they have a P800 million debt. How can you solve that? Come to my office and we will discuss that. If you could convince me I will join you. But give me a solution," Ferrer said. The Bacolod City Sangguniang Panlungsod will conduct a public consultation on Monday, June 5, Councilor Claudio Puentevella, chair of the Committee on energy and public utilities, said. Puentevella said they received a request from various groups in the city to hold a public consultation. "We need to address their questions and we will hear the direct answer from Ceneco and More Power," he added. Prior to the signing, Castro made a presentation on the services they have done with the power situation in Iloilo City before 40 of the 61 village chiefs and members of the Philippine Guardians Brotherhood Inc. During his presentation, Castro said MORE Power will pay Ceneco 100 percent of its distribution assets. Of which, 70 percent will be in cash and 30 percent in shares in the new distribution company that will be put up and seek a Congressional franchise. This will enable Ceneco to pay for its loans and for the retirement and separation pay for its employees, he said. The remaining amount, he said can be utilized as payment for patronage refund to its member-consumers. Castro assured power consumers of reasonable electrical rates by securing new power contracts from new suppliers through the Competitive Selection Process. "Our priority is renewable energy," he said.Under the JVA, he said, member-consumers are now assured of dividends every year.“We will provide consumer-friendly service that will respond to complaints 24/7,” he said. Castro said systems loss will greatly go down as the campaign against jumpers and power theft will be intensified. Residents, especially those who are informal settlers, will now find it easier to have their own electrical connectors as documentary requirements will be minimized, he said. Castro also committed to lessen incidents of unscheduled power interruptions. Under the JVA company, employees of Ceneco will be prioritized in the hiring, he said. Another commitment of Castro is the continuation of the Barangay Electrification Program of the national government." With stable power, new investors will come in which will mean more economic activity and employment opportunities for more people," he said&nbsp;&nbsp;

THE Central Negros Electric Cooperative (Ceneco) and Primelectric Holdings Inc.,a subsidiary of Iloilo City-based More Power Corp., signed the joint venture agreement (JVA) at Scarborough Restaurant in Bacolod City on Saturday, June 3.

Ceneco, Primelectric ink joint venture agreement

MANILA, Philippines — As the Philippines braces for the return of El Niño and the dry spells and droughts it could bring, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. signed an executive order creating an office that will ensure the availability and sustainable management of water resources in the country.&nbsp;

Marcos on Thursday signed Executive Order 22 creating the Water Resources Management Office (WRMO) in the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

WRMO was created to address the challenges affecting the management of water resources in the country such as the fragmented water and sanitation sector, increasing demand for water due to population and economic growth, impacts of climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic, lack of infrastructure, and inconsistent government regulations.

The office will serve as a transitory body pending the creation of the Department of Water—among the pieces of legislation that Marcos has identified as a priority.

WRMO is mandated to ensure the immediate implementation of the Integrated Water Resources Management in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and formulate a corresponding Water Resources Master Plan, the Presidential Communications Office said in a statement.&nbsp;

The office is directed to integrate into the IWMP the development plans of other agencies, including the following:

Philippine Development PlanPhilippine Water Supply and Sanitation Master PlanNational Water Resources Board Security Master Plan

WRMO is also tasked to generate and maintain credible and timely water and sanitation data to aid in evidence-based policy-making, regulations, planning, and implementation.&nbsp;

It will also "shepherd and champion"&nbsp;the passage of the proposed Department of Water as well as a&nbsp;regulatory commission on water.&nbsp;

WRMO will be headed by an undersecretary to be appointed by the president upon the recommendation of Environment Secretary Antonia Loyzaga.

Loyzaga told media in February that the yet to be named undersecretary will be "an expert [who] has a scientific background in terms of water resource management" and who understands climate change and its implications on water security.

The DENR also has an attached agency that coordinates and regulates water resource development activities of the country—the National Water Resources Board. It issues water permits for the appropriation and use of water resources, and reviews water resource development plans of other agencies.

State weather bureau PAGASA earlier said there was a good chance El Niño would develop in July to September. It may persist until 2024.

<h1>New Water Resources Management Office created: What will it do?</h1>MANILA, Philippines — As the Philippines braces for the return of El Niño and the dry spells and droughts it could bring, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. signed an executive order creating an office that will ensure the availability and sustainable management of water resources in the country.&nbsp;Marcos on Thursday signed Executive Order 22 creating the Water Resources Management Office (WRMO) in the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.WRMO was created to address the challenges affecting the management of water resources in the country such as the fragmented water and sanitation sector, increasing demand for water due to population and economic growth, impacts of climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic, lack of infrastructure, and inconsistent government regulations.The office will serve as a transitory body pending the creation of the Department of Water—among the pieces of legislation that Marcos has identified as a priority.<h2>Mandate</h2>WRMO is mandated to ensure the immediate implementation of the Integrated Water Resources Management in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and formulate a corresponding Water Resources Master Plan, the Presidential Communications Office said in a statement.&nbsp;The office is directed to integrate into the IWMP the development plans of other agencies, including the following:Philippine Development PlanPhilippine Water Supply and Sanitation Master PlanNational Water Resources Board Security Master PlanWRMO is also tasked to generate and maintain credible and timely water and sanitation data to aid in evidence-based policy-making, regulations, planning, and implementation.&nbsp;It will also "shepherd and champion"&nbsp;the passage of the proposed Department of Water as well as a&nbsp;regulatory commission on water.&nbsp;WRMO will be headed by an undersecretary to be appointed by the president upon the recommendation of Environment Secretary Antonia Loyzaga.Loyzaga told media in February that the yet to be named undersecretary will be "an expert [who] has a scientific background in terms of water resource management" and who understands climate change and its implications on water security.The DENR also has an attached agency that coordinates and regulates water resource development activities of the country—the National Water Resources Board. It issues water permits for the appropriation and use of water resources, and reviews water resource development plans of other agencies.State weather bureau PAGASA earlier said there was a good chance El Niño would develop in July to September. It may persist until 2024.

Nature / Weather

New Water Resources Management Office created: What will it do?

- The ADNOC Logistics &amp; Services (L&amp;S) LNG Carrier (LNGC), ISH, begins commissioning as FSU at AG&amp;P's PHLNG, the first LNG terminal in&nbsp;the Philippines&nbsp;and the first modular LNG terminal in the world.

- AG&amp;P subsidiary, GAS Entec, converted the ADNOC L&amp;S Japan-built Moss-type ISH to 137,500 cbm FSU in five months. Supply, operations, and maintenance of the FSU will be undertaken by ADNOC L&amp;S as part of its long-term chartered agreement with AG&amp;P.

- LNG will be used to initially power San Miguel's 1,200 MW gas-fired power plant, one of the largest in the country, to serve Luzon, the most populous region in&nbsp;the Philippines.

- AG&amp;P's fully-owned subsidiary, AG&amp;P Industrial, specializing in project delivery, undertook the full spectrum of Engineering, Procurement, Fabrication, Construction, Installation and Commissioning (EPFCIC) of the PHLNG terminal and will be responsible for its Operations and Maintenance (O&amp;M). GAS Entec executed key onshore and offshore components including full EPC of proprietary standard regasification modules for PHLNG terminal, called the RegasTainers™, suitable for plug-and-play operations.

&nbsp;Leading LNG terminals and downstream infrastructure company, AG&amp;P International Pte. Ltd. (AG&amp;P) announced the arrival and successful berthing of its long-term chartered 137,500 cbm ISH Floating Storage Unit (FSU) at AG&amp;P's Philippines LNG (PHLNG) Import Terminal in Batangas Bay.&nbsp; Leased from ADNOC L&amp;S, the&nbsp;Japan-built Moss-type LNG Carrier ISH, converted to FSU by AG&amp;P subsidiary, GAS Entec, brings to&nbsp;the Philippines&nbsp;the country's&nbsp;maiden LNG cargo, creating history in the nations'&nbsp;energy industry with the arrival of clean and affordable LNG for the first time.

Joseph Sigelman, Chairman and CEO of AG&amp;P commented: "With the docking of the ISH at PHLNG for the next decade or longer, AG&amp;P is proudly set to open the first LNG terminal in&nbsp;the Philippines&nbsp;called PHLNG, one with both floating and, shortly, almost equal onshore tank storage, providing near 100% availability.&nbsp; As the first cargo of fuel originated in&nbsp;Abu Dhabi&nbsp;and with the long-term presence of the ISH, ADNOC L&amp;S is playing a pivotal role alongside AG&amp;P and San Miguel, our anchor customer, in bringing clean energy to the Philippines.&nbsp; We are proud to see the relationship between the two great nations of UAE and&nbsp;the Philippines&nbsp;grow in this profound way, with PHLNG as a prime case study."

AG&amp;P's PHLNG is a landmark development that will serve to kick-start&nbsp;Philippines'&nbsp;LNG importation and regasification ability, delivering gas to secure the country's current and future energy demand. It will accelerate industrialization, create jobs, lower pollution and trigger overall economic and social progress and improve the quality of life for many thousands of Filipinos.

Other Image Option:&nbsp;ISH FSU berths at AG&amp;P's Philippines LNG (PHLNG) Import Terminal

Atlantic Gulf &amp; Pacific (AG&amp;P) is a global leader in developing and running LNG and gas logistics and distribution solutions. AG&amp;P provides the infrastructure to access natural gas safely and easily in new and growing markets. We act as an owner and service provider covering the development, financing, engineering, procurement, project management and construction of onshore and offshore gas infrastructure, linking suppliers to downstream customers.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.agpglobal.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.agpglobal.com</a>

AG&amp;P Industrial is a fully-owned subsidiary of AGP Group with specialization in project delivery in the energy sector,&nbsp; AG&amp;P Industrial is a leading diversified full-asset lifecycle fabrication, EPFCIC (Engineering, Procurement, Fabrication, Construction, Installation and Commissioning), infrastructure development and Operations &amp; Maintenance (O&amp;M) company with a legacy of executing award-winning marquee projects globally for LNG terminals, refineries, petrochemical plants, utilities, LNG liquefaction modules and other complex process units. AG&amp;P Industrial operates a world-class manufacturing site in Batangas,&nbsp;Philippines, with deep-water access and 60,000MT&nbsp;of annual module assembly capacity. We build large segments of projects and complex process modules in a controlled environment with the highest standards of safety and quality.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.agpglobal.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.agpglobal.com</a>

<h1>AG&P's Philippines LNG (PHLNG) Import Terminal Welcomes the First LNG Cargo In The Country As It Successfully Berths Its Long-term Chartered 137,500 cbm ISH Floating Storage Unit (FSU) in Batangas Bay</h1>- The ADNOC Logistics &amp; Services (L&amp;S) LNG Carrier (LNGC), ISH, begins commissioning as FSU at AG&amp;P's PHLNG, the first LNG terminal in&nbsp;the Philippines&nbsp;and the first modular LNG terminal in the world.- AG&amp;P subsidiary, GAS Entec, converted the ADNOC L&amp;S Japan-built Moss-type ISH to 137,500 cbm FSU in five months. Supply, operations, and maintenance of the FSU will be undertaken by ADNOC L&amp;S as part of its long-term chartered agreement with AG&amp;P.- LNG will be used to initially power San Miguel's 1,200 MW gas-fired power plant, one of the largest in the country, to serve Luzon, the most populous region in&nbsp;the Philippines.- AG&amp;P's fully-owned subsidiary, AG&amp;P Industrial, specializing in project delivery, undertook the full spectrum of Engineering, Procurement, Fabrication, Construction, Installation and Commissioning (EPFCIC) of the PHLNG terminal and will be responsible for its Operations and Maintenance (O&amp;M). GAS Entec executed key onshore and offshore components including full EPC of proprietary standard regasification modules for PHLNG terminal, called the RegasTainers™, suitable for plug-and-play operations.&nbsp;Leading LNG terminals and downstream infrastructure company, AG&amp;P International Pte. Ltd. (AG&amp;P) announced the arrival and successful berthing of its long-term chartered 137,500 cbm ISH Floating Storage Unit (FSU) at AG&amp;P's Philippines LNG (PHLNG) Import Terminal in Batangas Bay.&nbsp; Leased from ADNOC L&amp;S, the&nbsp;Japan-built Moss-type LNG Carrier ISH, converted to FSU by AG&amp;P subsidiary, GAS Entec, brings to&nbsp;the Philippines&nbsp;the country's&nbsp;maiden LNG cargo, creating history in the nations'&nbsp;energy industry with the arrival of clean and affordable LNG for the first time.<img style="max-width:100%;height:auto;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/AGP_Terminal_2.jpg" alt="ISH FSU berths at AG&amp;P’s Philippines LNG (PHLNG) Import Terminal"/>Joseph Sigelman, Chairman and CEO of AG&amp;P commented: "With the docking of the ISH at PHLNG for the next decade or longer, AG&amp;P is proudly set to open the first LNG terminal in&nbsp;the Philippines&nbsp;called PHLNG, one with both floating and, shortly, almost equal onshore tank storage, providing near 100% availability.&nbsp; As the first cargo of fuel originated in&nbsp;Abu Dhabi&nbsp;and with the long-term presence of the ISH, ADNOC L&amp;S is playing a pivotal role alongside AG&amp;P and San Miguel, our anchor customer, in bringing clean energy to the Philippines.&nbsp; We are proud to see the relationship between the two great nations of UAE and&nbsp;the Philippines&nbsp;grow in this profound way, with PHLNG as a prime case study."AG&amp;P's PHLNG is a landmark development that will serve to kick-start&nbsp;Philippines'&nbsp;LNG importation and regasification ability, delivering gas to secure the country's current and future energy demand. It will accelerate industrialization, create jobs, lower pollution and trigger overall economic and social progress and improve the quality of life for many thousands of Filipinos.<img style="max-width:100%;height:auto;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/AGP_Terminal_1.jpg" alt="ISH FSU berths at AG&amp;P’s Philippines LNG (PHLNG) Import Terminal"/>Other Image Option:&nbsp;ISH FSU berths at AG&amp;P's Philippines LNG (PHLNG) Import TerminalAbout AG&amp;P Group&nbsp;Atlantic Gulf &amp; Pacific (AG&amp;P) is a global leader in developing and running LNG and gas logistics and distribution solutions. AG&amp;P provides the infrastructure to access natural gas safely and easily in new and growing markets. We act as an owner and service provider covering the development, financing, engineering, procurement, project management and construction of onshore and offshore gas infrastructure, linking suppliers to downstream customers.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.agpglobal.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.agpglobal.com</a>About AG&amp;P IndustrialAG&amp;P Industrial is a fully-owned subsidiary of AGP Group with specialization in project delivery in the energy sector,&nbsp; AG&amp;P Industrial is a leading diversified full-asset lifecycle fabrication, EPFCIC (Engineering, Procurement, Fabrication, Construction, Installation and Commissioning), infrastructure development and Operations &amp; Maintenance (O&amp;M) company with a legacy of executing award-winning marquee projects globally for LNG terminals, refineries, petrochemical plants, utilities, LNG liquefaction modules and other complex process units. AG&amp;P Industrial operates a world-class manufacturing site in Batangas,&nbsp;Philippines, with deep-water access and 60,000MT&nbsp;of annual module assembly capacity. We build large segments of projects and complex process modules in a controlled environment with the highest standards of safety and quality.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.agpglobal.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.agpglobal.com</a>

AG&P's Philippines LNG (PHLNG) Import Terminal Welcomes the First LNG Cargo In The Country As It Successfully Berths Its Long-term Chartered 137,500 cbm ISH Floating Storage Unit (FSU) in Batangas Bay

Power utility giant Manila Electric Company (Meralco) has secured additional 56 megawatt capacity commitments from Ayala Property Management Corporation (APMC), which will be utilizing its own generating assets for its power needs when necessary.

In a statement to the media, Meralco said it has gotten pledges of additional 56MW of capacity that can be shaved off from its system demand as APMC will be utilizing its own generating assets.

The additional new commitment has brought the real estate firm "within-the-fence electricity generation"&nbsp; to 144MW from what it previously promised at 88MW.

The APMC commitment falls under the interruptible load program (ILP), which, in turn, helps shore up supply within its network when grid supply would run tight within the stretch of the summer months.

The ILP is an initiative backed by the Department of Energy (DOE), so the utilities can have added measure on building up their supply buffer, in case available power supply would turn extremely strained as demand would peak during the summer period.

Meralco, the country’s biggest power utility, further reported that at this stage, it has already gotten the nod of at least 117 ILP participants with estimated 616 megawatts of capacity that can be reduced from Meralco’s network when warranted.

The company expounded that “the ILP is an energy demand-side management program through which large-load customers are asked to use their generator sets or reduce their operations, instead of drawing power from the grid.”

Such measure, according to Meralco, will “spare households from power interruptions during instances of red alert or when supply is insufficient to meet the demand.”

The supply-demand outlook presented by the DOE is not projecting occurrences of ‘red alert’ that could plunge Luzon grid into rotational brownouts, although the agency has not discounted probabilities of power service interruptions if major power plants would suddenly conk out.

But as asserted by Michael Magpusao, chief engineer and chief operating officer of APMC, “participation in the ILP is a win-win for both companies and communities,” adding that such initiative “exemplifies the spirit of bayanihan because while the national government prepares the grid for a more reliable supply, we, in the load side, are doing our part to help communities.”

That business segment of Ayala Land has been managing over 200 properties nationwide ranging from residential buildings to malls and estates.

Abraham Uy, chairman of WalterMart, similarly vouched on the benefits of the ILP program – primarily on lowering the chances of power service interruptions, as he stated that “Meralco’s management of the ILP program benefits companies which no longer need to worry about (demand) surges.”

Beyond the ILP as a stop-gap measure to thin supply dilemmas in the Luzon grid, Meralco Vice President Joe Zaldarriaga reiterated that “electricity consumption historically rises during the dry months because of the increased use of cooling appliances. That’s why we, in Meralco, continue to share a wealth of energy efficiency tips, not only to help our customers better manage their power consumption, but also to encourage its adoption as a way of life."

<h1>Meralco secures addl’l capacity commitment from Ayala</h1>- ILP participants will help reduce rotational brownout probabilities when demand would peak. during the summer months
- Participating big-ticket customers will be asked to de-load from the grid and will instead switch on their respective generating assetsPower utility giant Manila Electric Company (Meralco) has secured additional 56 megawatt capacity commitments from Ayala Property Management Corporation (APMC), which will be utilizing its own generating assets for its power needs when necessary.In a statement to the media, Meralco said it has gotten pledges of additional 56MW of capacity that can be shaved off from its system demand as APMC will be utilizing its own generating assets.The additional new commitment has brought the real estate firm "within-the-fence electricity generation"&nbsp; to 144MW from what it previously promised at 88MW.The APMC commitment falls under the interruptible load program (ILP), which, in turn, helps shore up supply within its network when grid supply would run tight within the stretch of the summer months.The ILP is an initiative backed by the Department of Energy (DOE), so the utilities can have added measure on building up their supply buffer, in case available power supply would turn extremely strained as demand would peak during the summer period.Meralco, the country’s biggest power utility, further reported that at this stage, it has already gotten the nod of at least 117 ILP participants with estimated 616 megawatts of capacity that can be reduced from Meralco’s network when warranted.The company expounded that “the ILP is an energy demand-side management program through which large-load customers are asked to use their generator sets or reduce their operations, instead of drawing power from the grid.”Such measure, according to Meralco, will “spare households from power interruptions during instances of red alert or when supply is insufficient to meet the demand.”The supply-demand outlook presented by the DOE is not projecting occurrences of ‘red alert’ that could plunge Luzon grid into rotational brownouts, although the agency has not discounted probabilities of power service interruptions if major power plants would suddenly conk out.But as asserted by Michael Magpusao, chief engineer and chief operating officer of APMC, “participation in the ILP is a win-win for both companies and communities,” adding that such initiative “exemplifies the spirit of bayanihan because while the national government prepares the grid for a more reliable supply, we, in the load side, are doing our part to help communities.”That business segment of Ayala Land has been managing over 200 properties nationwide ranging from residential buildings to malls and estates.Abraham Uy, chairman of WalterMart, similarly vouched on the benefits of the ILP program – primarily on lowering the chances of power service interruptions, as he stated that “Meralco’s management of the ILP program benefits companies which no longer need to worry about (demand) surges.”Beyond the ILP as a stop-gap measure to thin supply dilemmas in the Luzon grid, Meralco Vice President Joe Zaldarriaga reiterated that “electricity consumption historically rises during the dry months because of the increased use of cooling appliances. That’s why we, in Meralco, continue to share a wealth of energy efficiency tips, not only to help our customers better manage their power consumption, but also to encourage its adoption as a way of life."

- ILP participants will help reduce rotational brownout probabilities when demand would peak. during the summer months
- Participating big-ticket customers will be asked to de-load from the grid and will instead switch on their respective generating assets